Reuters: Talk of German troops in Ukraine sparks political firestorm

Discussions among Western allies about sending European peacekeeping troops to Ukraine as part of a future peace settlement with Russia have triggered political and public backlash in Germany, a country still grappling with the legacy of its Nazi past and recent failed foreign missions.

Chancellor Friedrich Merz has signaled openness to German participation in a peacekeeping mission, but stressed any decision would require close coordination with European partners and his governing coalition. He also highlighted the legal hurdle: such a move would need Bundestag approval — a high bar for a chancellor who was only confirmed on his second attempt, Reuters reports.

“It is too early today to give a definitive answer,” Merz said on August 18 when asked directly about deployment.

Despite the early stage of discussions, opposition has grown swiftly. Alice Weidel, leader of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), blasted the idea as “dangerous and irresponsible,” accusing Merz’s conservatives of warmongering.

Even within Merz’s government, doubts persist. Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul warned that sending troops to Ukraine “would probably overwhelm us.”

Germany’s past military engagements — particularly in Afghanistan and Mali — have left a sour legacy, and many are wary of becoming embroiled in another foreign conflict. Economic struggles and the state of Germany’s underfunded military only deepen the resistance.

“Something like this is obviously extremely controversial in Germany,” said Marcel Dirsus, Non-Resident Fellow at the Institute for Security Policy at Kiel University. “There is no point expending political capital on something that might not actually come to pass.”

Leaked reports revealed CDU parliamentary leader Jens Spahn urged lawmakers to avoid public speculation. Yet the AfD has already pounced, sharing a doctored image of Merz with five young Germans and the caption: “Merz wants to send YOU to Ukraine? We don't!”

While French President Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer back potential deployments, Germans are more skeptical. A Forsa poll shows 49% support sending troops — but 45% oppose it, with stronger opposition in East Germany.

By Vafa Guliyeva